Black and Brown Sun-Themed Ceramic Cord Pendant Necklace - Ancient Sun

Artisan Organization: Ashkhen Bakhchinyan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Ashkhen, and I was born in 1973 in Yerevan, Armenia. My journey has been shaped by a deep appreciation for language, literature, and the arts, which have played significant roles in my life. I pursued my passion for literature by studying the Armenian language at the Faculty of Philology at Yerevan State University, specializing in the literature department. This academic background not only fostered my love for words but also laid the foundation for my future career as a translator.

"In 1998, I began my professional journey as a translator, and since then, I have had the privilege of translating many children's books by renowned Swedish authors. My time spent at the Faculty of Afro-Asian Languages at Uppsala University in Sweden enriched my language skills and expanded my horizons, allowing me to delve into Swedish courses and share my knowledge by teaching writing. It was a rewarding experience that allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and share the beauty of storytelling across cultures.

"While my professional life revolved around language, my heart found another calling in pottery. About 20 years ago, I took my son to a pottery group, and it was there that I discovered my passion for this ancient craft. What began as a simple outing transformed into a profound love for working with clay. The moment I touched the soft, malleable earth, I felt an energetic connection that sparked a deep-seated passion within me. Since then, I have devoted a significant portion of my free time to creating pottery, exploring the endless possibilities of this art form.

"Pottery, to me, is not just a craft; it is a journey of self-discovery and expression. When I work with clay, I feel an incredible energy flowing through me. It’s as if the clay possesses powerful regenerating, discharging, and cosmic cleansing qualities that nourish both the artist and the environment. Each piece I create becomes a vessel of this energy, carrying with it the essence of my intentions and emotions. I have come to understand the positive influence that objects made by human hands can have, not only on the creator but also on the space they inhabit.

"As I mold the clay, I find solace and inspiration in the rhythmic motions of my hands. There is something incredibly therapeutic about the process, a meditative quality that allows me to connect with my inner self. I believe that engaging in creative activities is essential for everyone, regardless of their primary occupation. Whether it’s through pottery, painting, writing, or any other form of art, the act of creating fills the environment with positivity and fosters a sense of well-being.

"Through my pottery, I strive to bring joy to others. Each piece is crafted with love and intention, infused with the energy that flows through me during the creative process. I hope that the people who come into contact with my work can feel the warmth and positivity that I strive to imbue in each creation. It is my belief that art has the power to uplift spirits and transform spaces, and I am honored to be a part of that journey.

"As I continue to explore the world of pottery, I am constantly inspired by the beauty of nature, the richness of Armenian culture, and the connections I make with others through my work. Each piece tells a story, capturing a moment in time and reflecting the beauty of life itself. I invite everyone to experience the joy of creating, to embrace the magic of art, and to fill their lives with positivity and creativity.

"In my own way, I aim to share the transformative power of pottery with the world. It is my hope that through my creations, I can inspire others to engage in their own artistic journeys and discover the healing potential that lies within the act of making something beautiful with their own hands.""